The data is clear: applying online without external connections gives you less than a 10% chance of landing the job. Networking thoughtfully and consistently it’s the key to staying employed and advancing your career. In an evolving marketplace, hiring managers increasingly rely on personal recommendations—think of them as references on steroids.

Yet, many professionals hunting for a new role or job make costly mistakes when networking for a new role.

Avoid these five mistakes so you can land the job you desire and deserve.

1. Slow Responses Kill Opportunities

[My personal pet peeve]When someone connects you to a hiring manager or career contact, responding within the same day is non-negotiable. A delayed reply signals disinterest and ingratitude—two traits that will make people hesitant to help you again. If you know you’ll be busy, draft a quick response in advance. When I open my network to someone and they don’t respond promptly, the door closes just as quickly. You will end up in the bottom of the hiring manager’s inbox, too. Kiss that opportunity goodbye. Telling someone you are too busy to reply is a slap in the face to those making the connection.

2. Being Vague Gets You Nowhere

If you can’t clearly articulate the roles, industries, or companies you’re targeting, you’re not ready to network. Asking for “general career advice” wastes the time of well-connected professionals. Do your research or work with a me to refine your ask before reaching out.

3. Weak Follow-Ups = Missed Opportunities

Your job search is your top priority but it not anyone else’s. Politely engaged with your connections. If you don’t hear back, follow up within a reasonable timeframe with a short, polite reminder. Resend your résumé or cover letter to bring it back to the top of their inbox. Persistence (without pressure) keeps you on their radar.

4. Staying No to Jobs Before You Have an Offer.

Many things are negotiables but often clients halt communications for fear that the job does not meet 100% of their requirements. I recommend continuing conversations and building Relationships even if that role you are discussing is not perfect. Job titles vary widely across companies and are constantly evolving. Instead of fixating on an exact title, focus on your skills and how they translate across different roles. This approach increases your chances of landing a conversation, getting in the door, and even being considered for future openings. You might not be the right fit for what you are interviewing for but your resume can be added to another job opening down the line. Don’t stop short.

5. Being Too Casual Can Cost You

Even if you have a friendly relationship with your contacts, maintain a level of professionalism in all interactions. Treat every introduction with the respect it deserves—your tone, preparation, and follow-through will set you apart. Keep your etiquette light on, any zoom interview clothing on point and maintain a respectful communication tone..

Effective networking isn’t just about making connections—it’s about nurturing them. Master these five strategies, and you’ll significantly improve your chances of landing the right role.

Lynn Mull Holistic Career Coach & Author

Career Coach | Author | WellNess Advisor | Reiki Master
I offer Clarity through Reiki healing sessions, and Holistic Career Coaching and Facilitating Teams to professional wellness. I use various tools and methods to speak, write, and provide 1.1 counsel to move out of the stuck into the actions that help you or your teams reach their goals.I found my way because I had to create it.
As a working parent and a sandwich caregiver in my early 30s, I understand the pressures to keep going, provide for my family and prioritize everyone else’s wellbeing.

I looked in many corners and could not find one coach to break into my inner blockages and move my career until Reiki and a Career Coach got me there. We can be all the things to everyone, but first, we must get aligned and intuitively move forward for our own .